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David "Dave" Stensgar

David “Dave” Francis Stensgar, a lifetime resident of Inchelium, passed away on August 10, 2012 while visiting the Two Rivers Casino near Fort Spokane. Dave was born on November 29, 1931 in Inchelium, the son of Fredrick and Mary (Meusy) Stensgar. He grew up in Inchelium where he attended school and graduated from Inchelium High School in 1949. Dave then went to work for the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railways. After two years with the railroad, Dave returned to Inchelium and began his career in the timber industry with Boise-Cascade Lumber. Dave worked for 18 years with Boise-Cascade before his election to the Tribal Council. He served as a councilman for 8 years and then returned to the timber industry working for the Colville Confederated Tribe. Dave continued his work with the tribe in 1985 when he began driving the Inchelium garbage route. He retired in 2001 and spent his time taking day, weekend and some weeklong travels with family and friends. He also enjoyed going to community events, high school sporting events and family gathering. Dave had a great time at the casinos and enjoyed the people as well as the presence of Lady Luck. He was a man of great wisdom who shared knowledge in his stories and with a helpful hand. Dave was also strong willed with a huge personality. He took many local “scenic” drives throughout the seasons watching Mother Nature’s beauty. Dave could often be found sharing time with friends while playing pool. He was a man with a hat for every occasion, and his company will be dearly missed. Dave was preceded in death by his two sons, Dave Jr., and Jerry Lee; one infant daughter, Tammy, and his brothers, Jim and Jude Stensgar. Dave is survived by his friend of 25 years, Clara Toulou, Inchelium; sons, Rob Stensgar, Alan Stensgar, Chawalah Fry, all of Inchelium, Ti Sundust-Stensgar, Omak; daughter, Aleesa Stensgar, Inchelium, 10 grandchildren; brothers, Melvin “Bud” Stensgar and George Stensgar of Inchelium; and a host of extended family that he considered his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren and they, in return, loved him dearly. A funeral service will begin at 10 a.m., Wednesday, August 15, at the Inchelium Community Center. The graveside service will follow at the Hall Creek Cemetery in Inchelium. Memorial contributions may be given to the charity of your choice. Please visit the on-line memorial and sign the guestbook at www.danekasfuneralchapel.com. Danekas Funeral Chapel and Crematory is entrusted with the arrangements.